Since I have similar feeling to Flake's I too would like to reply. Yes, these dogs have a valiant nature and will do what is commanded of them- freely- it goes back to unconditional love between companion /dog and handler. My concerns are for the safety of the companion/ dog. They are placed in too many dangerous situations- like Flake stated, many time bleeding to death because they can not be reached, or wounded to such a degree that the quality of their life is taken from them.
Search and rescue, again not bomb sniffing, also takes a toll. Look at how many dogs developed lung issues- yes along with the human rescuers, and continued to work with bloody, raw paw pads. I just wish with all my heart and spirit another way could be found so those companions, dogs do not need to give up their lives.
Man, over the years, found a way to replace horse used in labor of farming- tractors-- mayhap a way will soon be found not to place these beautiful companions in such danger.